Motorists Here Brace for $4 a Gallon Gas

ST. LOUIS–(KMOX)–With $4 a gallon gas knocking at the door, motorists here are wondering how much more they can take.

Gasoline around town is averaging $3.89 a gallon now, but four states and Washington D.C. are already paying over $4 a gallon.

“We’ll see prices continue to escalate,”said Mike Right of the Auto Club of Missouri, “It’s rare that the highest price of the year occurs in March. Last May, we peaked hear at $3.99 a gallon.”

Meanwhile, at the pumps motorists are disheartened , complaining of no more disposable income, and some wondering whether gas prices will trigger another recession.

“What you are going to see is places like the malls, the restaurants that all get hard hit,” said Andy Friedrich who works in financial services, “Those lower income jobs are going to be going away.”

Insurance Adjuster Jerry Leehy drives a Hummer, which he says costs him $100 now to fill up. “I use it for my work to drive around,” Leehy said, “It’s the third fill up this week.”

Even motorists with sedans are complaining. One man said he no longer fills up, because that would cost $45. He and his wife worry the annual family outing to Six Flags probably won’t be happening this summer.

But not everyone is upset. Retiree Jack Piquard of Belleville was gassing up a big car he says costs about $55 to fill up. “I’m 84 years old and I couldn’t care less,” Piquard said, “I’m happy it’s not $7 a gallon.”

A year ago in St. Louis, the average price per gallon was $3.39, according to the Auto Club of Missouri.